PUTNEY DRUM LESSONS

Have You Always Wanted To Play The Drums?

Are You Already Drumming And Want To Improve?

Do You Live In The Putney Area?

Hi, I'm Pat Levett and I'm passionate about the drums!

I've made a career playing, touring and recording professionally with many different artists including Tim Minchin, Tom Jones, The Ronnie Scotts All Stars, The Coalminers, The James Hunter Six, The Ronnie Scotts Blues Explosion, Zigaboo Modeliste (The Meters), The Nigel Price trio, Bernard Purdie, Elliot Randall (Steely Dan), to name a few over the last 25 years.

I've taught a wide range of people, from fellow professional drummers to adult beginners and also children with special educational needs. I have conducuted group classes within schools and been involved with various masterclasses.

I strongly believe there is no substitute for bespoke 1-2-1 tuition.

"Pat is not only an accomplished musician but also an outstanding teacher. He is clearly passionate about the drums and music generally and shares this enthusiasm in his lessons. Pat tailors his lessons to ensure you get what you want out of your playing rather than follow a rigid methodology. This keeps each lesson fresh and challenging. I would not hesitate in recommending Pat if you are looking for tuition. I started as a complete beginner at 40 years old and am now playing with a local band". Richard

• Why Should I Learn With You?

I have been fortunate enough to learn from some highly respected teachers and players over the years (including studying at the Guildhall School Of Music, lessons with Bernard Purdie and Zigaboo Modeliste), which has informed me greatly in how to play and listen to music in many different settings.

I have also been approached by musicgurus.com to give video tutorials on New Orleans drumming, something I am very passionate about. As well as this I have been involved with filming the official instructional videos for the Rockschool grade pieces which are used in conjunction with international students.

Having been a musical director for various bands I have experience in working with other musicians in many different groups, as well as running my own band - experience which can all be shared within a lesson context.

My qualifications include a degree from The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and a Masters in Music Therapy from Roehampton University, as well as a full up to date DBS certificate.

• What Can I Learn?

Simply put - My goal is to teach you how to play music on the drums,

I can help you learn all styles that apply to the modern day drum kit, including rock, Reggae, Blues, Soul, Latin, Jazz and even Classical music.

Within these areas we can explore the history and the cultural background which will inform your musical knowledge and most imprtantly your musicianship.

If you're interested we can also get into hand percussion (congas, bongos, tambourine etc).

• Get (even!) more joy from listening to music,

• Build solid technique (holding sticks right / correct posture etc).

• Play music!

• What's Your Approach?

My guide and goal is always defined by the music, and understanding the drummers role within that whatever style or situation.

Tell me what your goal is and we'll create a plan and work towards it. If I disagree or feel your goals are unrealistic within your time frame I'll tell you.

Grades? No problem. If you're the sort of person who likes a clear target to aim for and you're not out gigging, taking grades on drums is a good option.If you're looking to get into university (doesn't have to be a music course) they will help you stand out on your UCAS form.I'm happy to guide you through Trinity, Rock School syllabuses. I can also help you in the run up to auditions for bands a music colleges.

Want to be able to get up and play a (better) pub gig with your band? Great! This is what music is about. Communication with other people. It's the most rewarding feeling to count off a tune and be part of a group that creates emotion. Some of the most enjoyable / fulfilling musical experiences I've had have been playing to a small group of people.

Want to learn music notation? I can help. Although music is very much about your ears, understanding how to read and write music notation will help you capture new ideas and recreate parts you love.

• Where Will I Learn?

I have access to a studio space, where the drums can be played as loud as you like!

• When Will I Learn?

Weekly, during local school term dates. On occasion holiday lessons can be arranged.

My advanced / already pro students may only come and see me once / twice a year for 3-4 hours lessons.

• How Will I Learn?

My job is to work out what works for you. Along with paper and pen... when needed, we can record audio and even video during lessons (with consent), so you are able to listen and look back on what we covered.

• Do I Need To Own Drums?

No. I'll provide everything in the first lesson.

After the second lesson, you'll need to buy some sticks, a music notepad and a practice pad (I'll point you in the right direction).

If after around 10 lessons, it might be time to invest in an instrument.

• Will You Help Me, If / When I Want To Buy Drums?

When the time is right, I'll help you find the right equipment for you and the environment you live in. This might be an electronic or an acoustic kit.

• Can I See You Play?

I'll let you know what public shows I'm doing nearby, I sometimes pop a few videos up on the video page.

• How Much Do the Lessons Cost?

Half hour lessons are £25 and an hour lesson is £50

• Will You Teach Me?

I only teach people who really want to learn, and I currently have slots available on Mondays and Tuesdays between 10AM and 7PM.

To start with, beginners will normally come for a single lesson.At the end of that, we can decide if we'd both like to continue. If were both happy, lessons are weekly, during school term time. Holiday lessons can be arranged.

Lessons are paid in groups of 5 and one months notice is required if you want to stop.

If you need to reschedule, I'll do my best to help you out.

• How Do I Contact You?

Please fill in the form below and I will contact you typically within 24 hours.